NSW public schools now allow girls to wear pants

New changes to the uniform policy in New South Wales public schools mean girls are now allowed to wear shorts or trousers as well as skirts and dresses.

The change in policy only applies to public primary and secondary schools in New South Wales and is the biggest overhaul of the uniform policy in more than a decade.

New South Wales Education Minister Rob Stokes has reduced the previous 24-page uniform policy document down to a simplified two-page document. The new policy requires all school items to be affordable, comfortable, suitable for all body types and made from easy care fabric.

The new policy comes after various complaints from parents were made to schools regarding the restrictions wearing dresses and skirts places upon female students.

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Premier Gladys Berejiklian says the new policy is about making uniforms more affordable for parents and giving girls the choice of wearing skirts, scorts or shorts.

While the policy is supposed to give all girls the option to wear pants if they so wish, it is up to the individual discretion of each school as to whether it will be allowing the change, leaving wriggle room for schools with old-fashioned policies to deny their female students the option.

The new policy also mandates that schools must give parents at least three years' notice before making significant changes (such as adding a blazer) to ensure families are protected against cost rises. The change in policy also dictates that schools must advise parents on how they can access financial support if they are unable to purchase uniform items.

Laura BarryLaura Barry is a writer, bookworm and interior design enthusiast with a love for reporting on all things homes and lifestyle. When not tapping away at her keyboard, Laura can be found making endless cups of tea or perusing the shelves of Sydney’s many bookstores.